Mexborough & Swinton Times – Friday 13 May 1892

A Mexborough Man Robbed While Asleep.

At the Doncaster Borough Court on Monday, John Lightowler, George Leadbeater, and James Welch were charged on remand with having stolen 18s 6d from a Mexborough bargeman, named George Willey, at Doncaster, under circumstances reported last week.

Mr. Baddiley appeared for the prisoner James Welsh.

A man named Thomas Wrigley was also charged with the theft, but he was set at liberty, having promised to give evidence. He stated in the witness box that Lightowler took the money and that he gave 2s to each of them. Leadbeater went out and fetched something to eat, and Welsh paid for the drink. Witness had some of the food and drink. He could not say how much money was taken out the prosecutor’s pocket, but he saw him give the other men some.

When apprehended Lightowler produced 7s. in silver, and afterwards 7d. in copper.

Mr. Baddiley, on behalf of Welsh, denied be participated in the theft.

Lightowler and Leadbeater were each sent to prison for two months with hard labour, and Welsh was given the benefit of the doubt anti discharged.